Wildcard Weekend

32 teams started the football season with the goal of reaching the Super Bowl in sunny Miami, but now only 12 have that goal for this season. Wildcard weekend kicks off tomorrow with a double header beginning with the Jets and Bengals and the nightcap includes the Eagles and Cowboys. And no it's not deja vu, both of these match-ups happened last week. Followed by the Cards and Pack and the Ravens and Patriots playing Sunday. Even though the Jets trounced the Bengals last week, the Bengals are simply the better team. While the Jets have an amazing defense, their offense can be suspect with rookie Mark Sanchez at the helm. Besides, I'd be looking to embarass the team that embarrassed me just the week before. I think the game will be close, but the Bengals playing at home and having more experience at the most important position will take the victory.

I also like the Eagles to beat the Cowboys. I just think the 'Boys are meant to win in the playoffs anytime soon. They are like the dysfunctional marriage of the NFL. The rich dad gives everybody what they want, but is not really the one to enforce the rules to make everyone appreciate what they have. So when they get to the playoffs, it is like they feel they are entitled to win and thus don't end up working for the victory. Philly wins.

I'm not sure any pick has pained me more, but the Patriots will beat the Ravens. While the offense suffers greatly with Wes Welker out, the Ravens do not have the fire power to climb that hill. Ed Reed may end up with a pick six or two, but the offense is inconsistent. Ray Rice is a strong running back, but he can't be run every down. Meanwhile Brady and Moss have connected for four touchdowns and it's not even a game. The Pats win, but that's the only one they get.

The last game of the weekend will hopefully bring me the most joy. Another match-up from the previous week with the Cards and the Pack. Since I am a Bears fan I most definitely have a anti-Green Bay bias, but that's not the only reason I'm picking them. One the Packers showed their hand last week while the Cards showed very little. It is true that Arizona has some injury issues, but their offense has many different weapons and something they didn't have last year... a run game. The Packers aren't bad, but they aren't great. And number 12 is no number 4.